Fire badly damages the Ardglass GAC clubrooms
On Saturday afternoon Ardglass GAC clubrooms at the Ardtole pitch experienced a serious fire. A large section of the building was destroyed and damage extends into the rest of the clubhouse.
A spokesperson for the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service said: “Altogether 2 appliances from Downpatrick Fire Station, 1 Appliance from Ballynahinch Fire Station, 1 Appliance from Newcastle Fire Station and 1 Aerial Appliance from Portadown Fire Station attended the incident.
“Firefighters were called to reports of a small rubbish fire that spread to gorse and then spread to a building at Ardtole Road, Ardglass, Downpatrick.
“Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus used 2 jets and 2 house reel jets to extinguish the fire. The cause of the fire is believed to be accidental ignition and Firefighters left the scene at 5.43pm.”
In a statement from Ardglass GAC following the fire that gutted their clubhouse on Saturday, a club spokesperson said: “It has been an incredibly difficult week for everyone at Ard-Ghlais CLG following the devastating fire which caused significant damage to the clubrooms at Ardtole Memorial Park.
“Thankfully nobody was injured, but the blaze caused extensive damage to the building, including the collapse of part of the roof, significant fire and smoke damage, flooding caused by melted pipework, severe electrical damage and the destruction of the garage.
“The club would like to place on record its sincere thanks to the Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service for their outstanding response in bringing the fire under control, and to James Crangle Snr, whose quick actions in raising the alarm undoubtedly prevented further damage.
“The support shown by the local community, neighbouring clubs, Down GAA, elected representatives and countless individuals has been overwhelming. The club extends its heartfelt thanks to everyone who has offered assistance, messages of support and practical help during what has been one of the most challenging periods in the club’s history.
“As a result of the damage and the closure of club grounds on health and safety grounds, scheduled fixtures have been affected. The club thanks all teams, officials and supporters for their understanding while recovery efforts continue.
“While the full extent of the damage continues to be assessed, we remain determined to rebuild and move forward together. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
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Mason and Hanlon express support following Ardglass GAC clubhouse fire
Sinn Féin MLA Cathy Mason and Councillor Oonagh Hanlon have expressed their support for Ardglass GAC following the devastating fire at their clubhouse.
Cathy Mason MLA said: “Like so many across South Down, I was shocked and saddened to hear of the fire at Ardglass GAC.
“Our thoughts are with the club committee, members, volunteers, and everyone connected. This is a huge blow for a club that sits at the heart of the local community.
“I want to thank the Fire & Rescue Service for their swift response, and everyone who acted quickly to raise the alarm. Thankfully, nobody was injured.”
Councillor Oonagh Hanlon added: “Ardglass GAC means so much to so many people, and I know today’s news will be felt right across the village and beyond. “The response from the community has already shown just how valued this club is.
“Our thoughts remain with everyone connected to Ardglass GAC, and we know the community will rally around and support the club in in whatever way they can in the days and weeks ahead.”
